How to Make Money and Save Money with Rakuten (Formerly Ebates)

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A lot of readers have asked me if Rakuten is legit. If you can really make money and save money with Rakuten. The answer is yes! The first month I used Rakuten I forgot to use it for half my purchases and still made $49.99. After that, I downloaded the app and browser extension.

What is Rakuten

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is a free program that allows (you) its members to earn cash back or get discounts when you shop online or in stores. It’s free to members because stores pay Rakuten a commission for sending members (you) to their website. Rakuten then splits that commission with you.

You’ll see 2-3% on average for cash back but I’ve also seen 5-15% cash back. It’s essentially free money for clicking a link before making a purchase you already planned on making.

Instead of searching the web for a promo code or discount Rakuten does the work for you. It searches for promo codes and discounts and offers rebates/cash back (without having to send in a rebate card).

Rakuten has a relationship with over 2,000 retailers such as Amazon, Staples, Macy’s, Kohl’s, Saks Off Fifth, Sephora and Target to name a few.

How to Earn Cash Back

The first thing you need to do is Join Rakuten. You’ll get a $10 welcome bonus when you make your first purchase through Rakuten. To qualify you must be a new member and make a purchase of at least $25 within 90 days of becoming a member. Membership is free. All you’ll need to do is enter your email address and create a password.

How to Use Rakuten

1. Install the Rakuten cash back button

The best thing you can do if you want to make money and save money with Rakuten is to install the browser extension. I signed up for Rakuten but then kept forgetting to click through Rakuten’s website before making a purchase. If you download the Rakuten browser extension you won’t have to remember to click through; it automatically reminds you.

As a perk when you have the cash back button installed it’ll search for the best promo codes and discounts available to you. For example, I searched for Zadig and Voltaire and it automatically shows me Rakuten is offering 5% cash back on purchases.

2. In-store purchases

If you want to get cash back in-stores just add your credit card to your account. When you shop in that store, activate it and use the same debit or credit card that’s on your account. Your card has to be used as credit and not debit.

3. Download the Rakuten mobile app on your phone

Once the app is downloaded you can activate cash back by clicking the Rakuten app. Every time you shop online or in-stores visit the Rakuten app first. It’ll ask you if you want to shop online or in-store.

If you want to shop online you’ll click the link “Shop Now” and it will take you to the retailer’s website. If you want to shop “In-Store” select “Link Offer” and it will connect with your credit card on file. To start shopping click through one of the links in the Rakuten app.

4. Sign in and Shop

Alternatively, if you don’t want to install the browser extension on your browser or the app on your phone you can sign in and shop directly through Rakuten.

When you’re ready to get paid you’ll receive a check in the mail or get paid through PayPal. Make sure you take advantage of the double cash back!

Have you saved or made money through Rakuten? Leave your comments below!

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The information on this Mommy Lives Well website is offered for informational and educational purposes only and is not to be considered investment advice. Before acting on any information you should seek independent financial advice.